Family links to rotary club are re-continued

The new president of Heckmondwike Rotary Club is the eighth member of his family to hold that position.

Mike Lister took up the role last Thursday after joining the club in 2010.

Since his grandfather, the well-known Heckmondwike baker Dempster Lister founded the club in 1931, Mike’s great grandfather Joe Pearson, dad Rhodes Lister and four uncles have held the top post.

Mr Lister, 66, of Hightown Road, Liversedge, said: “I am delighted to be able to continue the family tradition in supporting the Rotary club.

“With so many of my predecessors being president before me, I feel the weight of responsibility from the past on my shoulders. I hope to lead the club to success during my year in office and my focus is going to be on supporting projects that help the local community in the Spen Valley.”

He said that the Rotary does not always get recognised for the good work it does, but hopes to promoite its image.

Former president Orlando Gubbini said: “I am sure that the club will continue to prosper and go from strength to strength under his leadership.”